A Weekend Away Keeps The Soul at Bay

International travel is important for a number of reasons. Time overseas and in foreign land is critical because it allows for us to develop a true sense of cultural identity. Travel also allows for us to identify with people who are different from us, creating an understanding. That's amazing. I believe it. I agree. I can concur. But here is an important question..

Why is it that we forget that the United States is comprised of 50 unique states that each have so much to offer? Sometimes, it is not about catching flights and stamping passports, but simply about hopping in the car and going somewhere new. A weekend away truly does keep your soul at bay.

This past Friday, RIGHT after work, Ziaa and I hopped in the car and drove off with our pajamas on, hair pulled back, music on blast  and snacks in  the back. We knew we had six hours to travel before we made it to Ocean Springs, Mississippi, but we had no idea where we would end up on the way. However, none of it mattered. We work so hard every day that a trip every now and again is necessary. 

My family is originally from the south, so traveling up and down the Beast coast has always been a part of my life. Then, I went to school in Virginia and eventually moved to Georgia, so that never changed. What is even more exciting for me than traveling to a new state, is traveling with Titziana to a state that she has never been to. She's literally my ride or die and partner in crime. It's nice now to have somebody to travel with who is always down to hit the road. I truly love my best friend and how she deals with my impulsivity.

​When we got to Alabama, I got HYPE! I started thinking about all of the history that took place on those roads. Selma, Montgomery, Birmingham! I felt like I was making history myself, just by being there! Stopping for me, makes it real. You weren't actually there if you don't walk on the ground. So BOOM! We went to Alabama.

​Finally, we made it to Mississippi and met up with my parents in their hotel room. We literally brought a blow up bed and welcomed ourselves in. My father hasn't stopped calling us "The Crashers," but I think it has a nice ring to it. Who would want to get in the way of "The Crashers?" Thanks Dad!

My father was in a bowling tournament in Gautier, Mississippi (still debating on how to pronounce that) on Saturday. The weather was PHENOMENAL and perfect for taking content pictures. I have truly been feeling myself lately, and not in a cocky way, but in a "Self Love is the Best Love" kind of way and I think I'm a better person because of it. J. Cole said it best, "Love yourself girl, or nobody will." (Was it really best when he said it, or do I just love him? Not sure but you get the point.) 

On top of the weather being everything we could ask for, Daddy did great in the tournament. It was his first ever, and he bowled a 600 series (with the help of his cheerleaders of course! Myself, Ziaa and Mommy truly made a lasting impression. We cheered on the team, danced around the lanes and kept a smile on everybody's faces. I really did enjoy myself. To be 23 and still have both of my parents in this crazy word is such a blessing. what's even greater is being able to support and love them the way that they've always supported and loved me. I am for real each of their biggest fans!

Even though we spent more time traveling than actually being at the tournament, we were all happy that we went. A six hour trip on Sunday turned into an 8 hour trip. Ziaa and I stopped at some of our favorite stores on the way home. We got gas more times than one.  We ate good food. We almost got hit by an eighteen wheeler truck (super besides the point). We made it home safely and ready to take on the new week. 

Don't sit around and wait for experience to come to you. Chase after that experience that you're looking for. It is worth it. You are worth it. Your mental health and peace of mind is worth it. Remember, a weekend away keeps the soul at bay. Stop making excuses. Just shut up and drive! *cues Rihanna* 

P.S. - Don't forget your denim jacket.
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